An Inside View on Orchesis
Orchesis Dance Company is a core part of the community and student life at Grove City College. It is a student-led group on campus that gives its students the opportunity to showcase their talents through the art of dance. Orchesis displays many different forms of dance including Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Contemporary, Swing, Rumba, Tango, and more. Each semester there is a new theme for the show, engaging many different audiences through the variety of song choices.
What truly makes Orchesis special to the community at Grove City College is the fact that anyone is welcome to audition whether they have any dance experience or not. Orchesis cast members range from those who’ve danced for nearly their entire life to those who’ve just started in their time at college, and offers the opportunity for everyone to grow together.
Not only is Orchesis special because of the opportunity to dance, but also because of the community and Christ-centered environment it provides. Growing up in the secular dance world, I was often surrounded by a very competitive and negative atmosphere, but after experiencing Orchesis for the first time, it was a huge relief to be surrounded by like-minded people who also wanted to worship through dance. It’s a group of people who truly care for each other and build each other up with encouragement in their dancing. We all have the same goal, to glorify God in what we do.
Students who come to watch Orchesis often feel a new appreciation for dance and the talent of their peers. There is so much talent and skill on campus that you don’t often see until the show. Oftentimes students go and watch sports games and support their friends through cheering them on in athletics. However, Orchesis gives an opportunity for those whose skill doesn’t always get appreciated, to be seen and applauded. So, if you know anyone who participates in Orchesis and has spent much of their time practicing for the upcoming show, support them and show up for them. And who knows, it may be one of your new favorite events on campus.
